The Wheels Go Round and Round: It's School Bus Time Again

Unlike a lot of Contra Costa school districts, Lamorinda has school bus service. Granted, it's not free, or even all that inexpensive, but if you're looking for a safe, reliable way to get your child to school and back, it's a great option to have.

"We all get stuck in traffic," said Lamorinda Bus Program manager Julie Hansen. "We all complain about it.  We all know it gets worse when school starts.  What to do about it? If you’re a parent with school-aged children, consider putting your students on the Lamorinda School Bus for a safe, no hassle ride to school."

According to transportation studies, school buses are the safest form of transportation.   

Operating in the area since 1994, the program is now taking registration for service to elementary, middle and high schools throughout the area (except for Acalanes High). There are a variety of routes to the various schools. 

Annual two-way bus passes are $450 per year. One-way passes are $296, with a $159 upgrade to round trip. Individual bus rides are $3. 

In addition to parent fees, the bus program is largely funded through a half-cent sales tax in place throughout the county, and administered by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority.  

The buses, operated by a company called First Student, are 2009 models, and use modern technology to burn clean and without the smell and smoke of the school buses parents might remember, Hansen said. Each bus is equipped with three-point seat belts. 

For more information about the school bus program, phone 925-299-3216.